PRA intensifies crackdown on tax evasion

Business Recorder reported that the Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has increased its drive against tax evasion and irregular billing at restaurants and food outlets. Several chains had been collecting tax from diners without entering it properly in their official records. In multiple cases, the amounts shown on customer bills did not match the corresponding records.

The crackdown ran across Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha and Multan, prompted by complaints from the public and vigilance reports. Some food operators were penalised for fraudulent practices, while others received notices over not adopting the Electronic Invoice Monitoring System (e-IMS).

Eateries and food chains have been told to prepare correct invoices and keep full, clear records. Outlets with monthly turnover of up to Rs500,000 must also issue invoices through e-IMS, the spokesperson clarified. The spokesperson added that diverting tax taken from diners is unacceptable.